The 4th International Housing First Conference

Mobilizing knowledge of evidence-based Housing First practices

The 4th International Housing First Conference accelerated the adoption and effectiveness of the Pathways and European Housing First Hub. It brought together experts to share best practices and knowledge, with a focus on evidence-based Housing First programs.

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The virtual format of the conference attracted 462 registrants from 19 countries, doubling attendance compared to previous in-person events.
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Participants included housing sector professionals, agency leaders, social workers, counsellors and scholars.
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Though the survey response rate was low, satisfaction ratings were consistently above 4 out of 5.

Project scope and expected outcomes

Strengthening the Housing First Model and Networks

The conference centred around enhancing the Housing First model, which prioritized rapidly placing individuals experiencing homelessness into permanent housing with vital support services. Its primary focus was to build capacity among practitioners, agencies and communities through networking and knowledge sharing, encompassing the following 5 key objectives:

Knowledge Sharing: The conference served as a platform to exchange knowledge regarding Housing First programs.
Stakeholder Networking: It facilitated networking opportunities among various stakeholders.
International Collaboration: The event promoted international partnerships and collaboration.
Policy Impact: Identifying policy changes to reduce and prevent homelessness was a significant goal.
Educational Opportunities: The conference offered research training opportunities for students and fellows.

Extending the Influence of the Housing First Model

The 4th International Housing First Conference was held online in October 2021. This marked its debut in Canada, originally scheduled for November 2020 but was rescheduled due to the pandemic. The conference delved into various themes including:

fidelity methods
operations
outcomes
program innovations
program and stakeholder partnerships
networking and communities of practice
advocacy related to policy change

The conference featured:

presentation panels
interactive workshops
posters summarizing research
networking sessions

All activities were available in English and French and session videos were accessible online post-event.

Expanding Knowledge and Networks

The conference expanded Housing First networks and created a consortium focused on Housing First. This consortium's first meeting took place in January 2022. The conference enhanced knowledge of the Pathways and European Housing First Hub model, contributing to reduced chronic homelessness, addiction and improved mental health support.

The conference aimed to respond to the National Housing Strategy's priority area of "Housing for Those in Greatest Need." It attracted government, agency and front-line workers to share information and knowledge. The virtual format allowed broader international participation and the material shared online after the event furthered the conference's knowledge mobilization goals.

In alignment with the National Housing Strategy's focus on "Housing for Those in Greatest Need," the conference successfully attracted government officials, agency representatives, and front-line workers who shared valuable information and knowledge. Its virtual format not only broadened international participation but also ensured that the material shared online post-event continued to further the conference's knowledge mobilization objectives.

The Pathways and European Housing First Hub

The Pathways and European Housing First Hub uses evidence-based approaches to end chronic homelessness. Additionally, the Housing First Hub: